Area Agencies on Aging in California

Complete Guide to Area Agencies on Aging in California (2025)

Last updated: August 2025

If You Need Emergency Help

Call 911 immediately if you or someone you know is in immediate danger, experiencing a medical emergency, or being abused or neglected.

For urgent aging or disability assistance:

• California Adult Protective Services: 833-401-0832 – Report elder abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• California Crisis Support Line: 1-844-317-4454 – 24/7 mental health and crisis support
• National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 988 – Crisis intervention and emotional support
• California 2-1-1: Dial 2-1-1 – Connect with local emergency resources statewide

For immediate food assistance:

• CalFresh Information Line: 1-877-847-3663 – Apply for food assistance benefits
• Disaster CalFresh: Contact local county office – Emergency food assistance after disasters
• California Food Bank Network: Visit cafoodbanks.org – Locate food pantries

For natural disaster assistance:

• California Emergency Services: 1-800-852-7550 – During earthquakes, wildfires, floods
• American Red Cross California: 1-800-733-2767 – Emergency shelter and relief
• Cooling Centers: Call 2-1-1 during extreme heat events

Key Takeaways

• California has 33 Area Agencies on Aging (AAAs) – the largest aging network in the nation
• Serving over 7 million seniors across 58 counties with diverse urban and rural communities
• No asset limits for most programs since 2024 – expanded eligibility for many services
• IHSS program serves 700,000+ Californians – largest in-home care program nationally
• Disaster preparedness is integrated into all services due to wildfires, earthquakes, and emergencies
• Multilingual services available reflecting California’s incredible diversity
• Housing cost assistance recognizing California’s high cost of living
• Innovation leader in aging services with cutting-edge programs and technology

Understanding California’s Aging Network

California’s aging services system is the largest and most complex in the United States, serving a senior population larger than the entire population of most states. The system has evolved to address California’s unique challenges: extreme geographic diversity from desert to mountains to coast, the highest housing costs in the nation, significant earthquake and wildfire risks, and incredible ethnic and linguistic diversity.

The California Department of Aging (CDA) provides state leadership and oversight, while 33 regional Area Agencies on Aging deliver services adapted to their local communities’ needs. Each AAA serves designated Planning and Service Areas (PSAs) that may cover single large counties like Los Angeles, multiple rural counties, or specific regions within counties.

California’s aging network has pioneered many innovations now used nationwide, including the In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) program, comprehensive disaster response protocols, and technology-enhanced service delivery. The state’s approach emphasizes keeping seniors in their homes and communities while providing robust support systems.

The diversity of California’s senior population – including large Latino, Asian, African American, Native American, and LGBTQ+ communities – requires culturally competent services delivered in multiple languages with respect for varied traditions and family structures.

California’s 33 Area Agencies on Aging by Region

Northern California

San Francisco Bay Area

Central Valley & Central Coast

Southern California

Desert & Mountain Regions

Note: Contact information may change. For current details, call 2-1-1 or visit aging.ca.gov

Core Services Provided by California AAAs

Information and Assistance Services

Every AAA provides comprehensive information and assistance to help Californians navigate the complex aging services landscape. Services include:

• Multilingual Support: Services available in Spanish, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Russian, and other languages reflecting local demographics
• Benefits Navigation: Help with Medi-Cal, CalFresh, Social Security, Medicare, and housing assistance programs
• Crisis Intervention: Immediate response during emergencies, natural disasters, or family crises
• Resource Coordination: Connections to healthcare, legal aid, housing, transportation, and community services
• Technology Assistance: Help with telehealth, online applications, and digital literacy
• Disaster Preparedness: Emergency planning for earthquakes, wildfires, and other California-specific risks

This service is free to anyone regardless of age, income, citizenship status, or county of residence.

Nutrition Programs

California AAAs operate extensive nutrition programs serving millions of meals annually across diverse communities.

Congregate Meals: Nutritious meals served at senior centers, community centers, faith-based organizations, and culturally specific locations. Programs accommodate diverse dietary needs including vegetarian, diabetic, low-sodium, and culturally appropriate meals (Latino, Asian, Mediterranean, etc.). Suggested donations typically $3-6, but no one is denied service.

Home-Delivered Meals: Critical service for homebound seniors, delivered by staff and volunteers who also provide wellness checks. Programs adapt to California’s geography – from urban apartment buildings to rural mountain communities. Special provisions during wildfire evacuations and power shutoffs.

CalFresh Outreach: AAAs help seniors apply for and maintain CalFresh (California’s SNAP program) benefits, including special disaster benefits during emergencies.

Cultural Food Programs: Specialized meals reflecting California’s diversity, including halal, kosher, vegetarian, and ethnic-specific options prepared according to cultural traditions.

California Reality: Many AAAs have adapted services for California’s high cost of living, with some programs serving working seniors who still struggle with food insecurity despite employment.

Transportation Services

Transportation across California’s vast and varied geography requires innovative approaches adapted to local conditions.

Medical Transportation: Priority service for healthcare appointments, including long-distance transportation to specialty care in major medical centers. Some programs coordinate with Medi-Cal transportation benefits and ride-sharing partnerships.

Essential Services Transportation: Scheduled transportation to grocery stores, pharmacies, government offices, and social services. Programs operate everything from wheelchair-accessible vans to volunteer driver networks.

Disaster Evacuation Support: Emergency transportation during wildfires, earthquakes, and other disasters, including coordination with county emergency services.

Technology-Enhanced Transportation: Some AAAs partner with ride-sharing services, use mobile apps for scheduling, and provide real-time transportation updates.

Geographic Challenges: California’s AAAs serve areas ranging from dense urban centers to remote rural communities accessible only by mountain roads, requiring flexible transportation solutions.

Case Management and Care Coordination

California AAAs provide intensive case management adapted to the state’s complex service systems and high costs.

Medi-Cal Navigation: Expert help navigating California’s complex Medicaid system, including managed care plans, specialty services, and appeals processes.

Housing Crisis Support: Assistance with California’s housing affordability crisis, including help with rent stabilization, senior housing applications, and homelessness prevention.

IHSS Coordination: Help applying for and managing In-Home Supportive Services, including choosing providers and resolving service issues.

Disaster Recovery: Comprehensive support following earthquakes, wildfires, and other disasters, including FEMA applications, insurance claims, and rebuilding coordination.

Legal Assistance

Free legal help for seniors 60+ in civil matters, with California-specific expertise including:

• Housing law including rent control, tenant rights, and senior housing issues
• Medi-Cal and Medicare appeals and enrollment
• Immigration issues affecting senior community members
• Elder financial abuse prevention and response
• Estate planning adapted to California law and property values
• Consumer protection including scam prevention and debt collection
• Family law issues affecting seniors

Health Insurance Counseling and Advocacy Program (HICAP)

California’s HICAP program provides free, unbiased Medicare counseling through trained volunteers at AAAs statewide.

HICAP Services:

• Medicare enrollment and plan comparison assistance
• Medicare Supplement (Medigap) insurance guidance
• Medicare Part D prescription drug plan selection
• Medicare Advantage plan reviews and comparisons
• Appeals assistance for denied claims and coverage decisions
• Fraud prevention education and reporting assistance

In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) Program

California’s IHSS program is the nation’s largest in-home care program, serving over 700,000 Californians and representing a unique approach to long-term care.

How IHSS Works

IHSS provides in-home assistance to eligible aged, blind, and disabled individuals as an alternative to institutional care. The program allows recipients to hire, train, and supervise their own caregivers, including family members and friends.

IHSS Programs Include:

• Community First Choice Option (CFCO): For Medi-Cal eligible persons who require nursing home level of care
• Personal Care Services Program (PCSP): For those needing personal care but not nursing home level care
• IHSS Plus Option Program (IPO): Allows payment to spouses or parents providing care
• IHSS Residual Program: For those not eligible for Medi-Cal but requiring services

IHSS Services Include:

Personal Care Services:

• Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and personal hygiene
• Help with transferring in and out of bed or chairs
• Medication reminders and assistance
• Exercise and physical therapy assistance as directed by healthcare providers

Domestic Services:

• Meal planning, preparation, and cleanup
• Laundry and clothes care
• General housekeeping and organization
• Shopping for food and essential items

Related Services:

• Accompaniment to medical appointments
• Protective supervision for those with mental health conditions
• Paramedical services when authorized by physicians

IHSS Eligibility Requirements (2025)

Financial Criteria:

• Income limit: $1,801/month for individuals (138% of Federal Poverty Level)
• No asset limits as of January 1, 2024 – major expansion of eligibility
• For couples: $2,433/month when both apply; only applicant’s income counted when one applies

Other Requirements:

• Must be California resident
• Must be aged (65+), blind, or disabled
• Must need assistance with daily living activities
• Cannot live in institutional care facilities
• Must apply for Medi-Cal if not already receiving

Assessment Process: Social workers conduct comprehensive in-home assessments ranking care needs from 1-6, with 6 being the highest level of need. Up to 283 hours per month of services may be authorized depending on assessed needs.

IHSS Provider Employment

Unique Features:

• Recipients can hire family members, friends, or neighbors as caregivers
• Providers receive hourly wages that vary by county ($15-20+ per hour)
• Health benefits and paid sick leave available for qualifying providers
• Training and support provided through AAAs and union partnerships

Innovation: California pioneered consumer-directed care, giving recipients control over their care decisions and provider choices – a model now used nationwide.

Special Population Services

Latino/Hispanic Seniors

California’s largest ethnic senior population, representing over 40% of seniors in some regions, receives specialized culturally competent services.

Culturally Specific Services:

• Spanish-language services with bilingual staff at all AAAs
• Culturally appropriate nutrition featuring traditional Latino foods and dietary customs
• Family-centered service planning respecting extended family structures and decision-making
• Religious and cultural sensitivity in program design and service delivery
• Immigration assistance and referrals for undocumented seniors
• Promotora programs using community health workers for outreach and education

Community Partnerships:

• Collaboration with Latino community organizations and churches
• Partnerships with Spanish-language media for outreach
• Coordination with consular services for Mexican and Central American nationals
• Work with farmworker organizations in agricultural regions

Asian and Pacific Islander Seniors

California has the largest Asian senior population in the U.S., requiring services in multiple Asian languages and cultural contexts.

Language-Specific Services:

• Services available in Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Japanese, Hindi, and other Asian languages
• Cultural competency training for staff on diverse Asian cultural practices
• Traditional medicine integration when appropriate and requested
• Intergenerational programming respecting Asian family values

Specialized Programs:

• Asian senior centers in major metropolitan areas
• Cultural food programs featuring Asian cuisines and dietary requirements
• Immigration and citizenship assistance for older immigrants
• Mental health services addressing cultural stigma and language barriers

LGBTQ+ Seniors

California leads the nation in LGBTQ+ senior services, with specialized programs in major metropolitan areas.

LGBTQ+-Specific Services:

• LGBTQ+ senior centers in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and other cities
• Culturally competent housing including LGBTQ+-welcoming senior housing
• Healthcare navigation for transgender seniors and same-sex couples
• Legal assistance with marriage equality, adoption, and estate planning issues
• Social programs addressing isolation in communities that may not be accepting

Statewide Initiatives:

• LGBTQ+ cultural competency training for all AAA staff
• Non-discrimination policies in all programs and services
• Partnership with LGBTQ+ advocacy organizations
• Specialized mental health and substance abuse services

Rural and Agricultural Communities

California’s rural areas face unique challenges including geographic isolation, agricultural economics, and limited infrastructure.

Rural-Specific Services:

• Mobile service delivery to remote communities and isolated ranches
• Agricultural worker programs addressing unique needs of farmworkers and their families
• Telehealth coordination for areas with limited healthcare access
• Seasonal service adjustments for agricultural cycles and weather patterns
• Volunteer networks utilizing community members for transportation and support

Geographic Adaptations:

• Services adapted for mountain communities with seasonal access limitations
• Desert community programs addressing extreme heat and isolation
• Coastal programs coordinating with fishing and tourism economies
• Central Valley programs serving large agricultural communities

Native American Seniors

California has the largest Native American population in the U.S., with seniors from over 100 tribal communities.

Tribal-Specific Services:

• Coordination with tribal governments and Indian Health Service
• Culturally appropriate programming respecting tribal traditions and sovereignty
• Traditional healing integration when requested by tribal members
• Native language interpretation for tribal languages still spoken
• Rancheria and reservation outreach to remote tribal communities

Urban Native Programs:

• Services for Native Americans living in urban areas
• Cultural centers and gathering places for urban Native seniors
• Connections to tribal services and benefits regardless of residence

Seniors Experiencing Homelessness

California’s homeless senior population has grown dramatically, requiring specialized interventions.

Homeless-Specific Services:

• Street outreach teams with aging specialists
• Emergency shelter coordination for seniors
• Benefits advocacy to access income and healthcare
• Housing navigation including rapid rehousing and permanent supportive housing
• Mental health and substance abuse services adapted for older adults

Housing First Approach:

• Prioritizing housing placement for seniors experiencing homelessness
• Supportive services delivered in housing settings
• Coordination with county homeless services and CoCs (Continuums of Care)

Disaster Preparedness and Response

California AAAs have developed sophisticated disaster response systems due to the state’s exposure to earthquakes, wildfires, floods, and other emergencies.

Earthquake Preparedness

Earthquake-Specific Services:

• Emergency supply assistance including earthquake safety kits for seniors
• Home safety assessments identifying earthquake hazards and mitigation strategies
• Emergency communication planning for seniors isolated after earthquakes
• Structural retrofitting information and assistance programs

Wildfire Response

Wildfire-Specific Services:

• Evacuation planning for seniors in high-risk areas
• Go-bag preparation assistance for rapid evacuation
• Air quality monitoring and indoor air filtration during smoke events
• Disaster CalFresh coordination for fire victims
• Recovery services including FEMA assistance and rebuilding support

Emergency Management Coordination

Statewide Systems:

• California Emergency Services integration with AAA disaster response
• Multi-county mutual aid agreements for large-scale disasters
• Emergency communications including amateur radio and satellite systems
• Vulnerable population registries identifying seniors needing emergency assistance

Recent Innovations:

• Real-time wildfire evacuation coordination
• Power shutoff response during high fire danger periods
• COVID-19 response adaptations now used for other emergencies
• Technology integration including emergency alert systems

How to Access Services

Step 1: Identify Your Local AAA

Call 2-1-1 from anywhere in California to be connected with your local AAA, or visit aging.ca.gov to find your Planning and Service Area (PSA) number and contact information.

Step 2: Initial Contact and Assessment

AAA staff will conduct an initial assessment that includes:

• Your current living situation and immediate safety concerns
• Language preferences and cultural considerations
• Current healthcare providers and insurance coverage
• Family and community support systems
• Financial situation and benefit eligibility
• Transportation needs and access challenges
• Emergency preparedness and disaster risk factors

Step 3: Comprehensive Service Planning

Based on your assessment, AAA staff will:

• Explain available services in your preferred language
• Help you apply for benefits including Medi-Cal, CalFresh, and housing assistance
• Coordinate services from multiple providers and agencies
• Develop an individualized service plan addressing your priorities
• Connect you with culturally appropriate community resources
• Establish emergency contact protocols and disaster plans

Step 4: Ongoing Support and Advocacy

• Regular check-ins and service coordination
• Annual reassessments and plan updates
• Crisis intervention during emergencies or disasters
• Advocacy with service providers when problems arise
• Updates about new programs and benefit changes
• Family caregiver support and education

Cost of Living Considerations

Housing Affordability Crisis

California’s extreme housing costs require specialized approaches to senior services.

Housing-Related Services:

• Rent stabilization assistance and tenant rights education
• Senior housing applications and waitlist management
• Homelessness prevention including emergency rent assistance
• Reverse mortgage counseling and property tax assistance
• Accessory dwelling unit (ADU) development support for intergenerational living

High Cost of Living Adaptations

Service Modifications:

• Higher income limits for some programs recognizing California’s costs
• Technology assistance helping seniors access lower-cost online services
• Bulk purchasing programs for prescription medications and supplies
• Energy assistance for California’s high utility costs
• Food assistance addressing California’s high grocery costs

Resources by Geographic Region

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How do I apply for IHSS if I don’t have immigration documentation?

California provides IHSS services to income-eligible individuals regardless of immigration status through the state’s expansion of Medi-Cal. You can apply through your county’s social services department, and your immigration status will not be reported to federal authorities. AAAs can help you navigate the application process and connect you with legal assistance if needed. The state has strong privacy protections for undocumented immigrants accessing services.

My home is in a high wildfire risk area. What help is available for emergency preparedness?

California AAAs provide comprehensive wildfire preparedness including emergency supply kits, evacuation planning, go-bag preparation, and coordination with county emergency services. Many AAAs maintain vulnerable population registries to ensure seniors receive evacuation assistance. During fire season, AAAs coordinate with utilities during power shutoffs and provide cooling centers during heat events. Contact your local AAA for a personalized emergency plan.

I’m a family caregiver for my spouse and the stress is overwhelming. What support is available?

California offers extensive family caregiver support including respite care, support groups, education programs, and counseling services. Through IHSS, you may be able to receive payment for providing care to your spouse. AAAs provide caregiver stress management, connections to adult day programs, and help accessing other family support services. Many AAAs offer culturally specific caregiver support groups in multiple languages.

The housing costs are making it impossible to age in place. What options do I have?

California AAAs recognize the severe housing affordability crisis and provide multiple assistance programs including emergency rent assistance, senior housing applications, reverse mortgage counseling, and property tax postponement programs. Some areas have ADU (granny flat) development assistance for intergenerational living. AAAs can also help with utility assistance, CalFresh benefits, and other cost-of-living support to help you remain in your home.

I need services in my native language (not English or Spanish). Are they available?

California AAAs provide services in dozens of languages reflecting the state’s diversity. Major Asian languages (Mandarin, Cantonese, Korean, Vietnamese, Tagalog, Japanese, Hindi), European languages (Russian, Italian, Portuguese), and many others are available depending on your region. Professional interpreters can be arranged for less common languages. All interpretation services are provided at no cost to you.

My adult child has a disability and I’m aging. How can we both get help?

California’s system serves both aging adults and people with disabilities through coordinated services. AAAs can help you access services for yourself while connecting your adult child with developmental disability services or other appropriate programs. Many AAAs specialize in serving families with multiple generations needing assistance, and some IHSS programs allow intergenerational caregiving arrangements.

I’m concerned about earthquakes and disasters. How do AAAs help with emergency preparedness?

California AAAs are leaders in disaster preparedness, providing earthquake safety kits, home safety assessments, emergency communication planning, and coordination with county emergency services. They maintain emergency contact lists, provide backup power for medical equipment, and coordinate disaster response including evacuation assistance. AAAs also help with disaster recovery including FEMA applications and rebuilding support.

Can I get help if I’m still working but struggling financially as a senior?

Yes, many California seniors work past traditional retirement age but still struggle with the state’s high costs. AAAs can help working seniors access CalFresh, utility assistance, Medicare Savings Programs, and other benefits that don’t conflict with employment. Some programs have higher income limits recognizing California’s cost of living, and AAAs can help identify resources specifically for working seniors.

I live in a very rural part of California. How do I access services?

Rural California AAAs use innovative service delivery including mobile units, telehealth coordination, volunteer driver networks, and circuit-rider programs that bring services to remote communities. Some AAAs coordinate with tribal governments, agricultural organizations, and faith-based groups to reach isolated seniors. Technology assistance is available to help rural seniors access online services and telehealth appointments.

My landlord is trying to evict me and I can’t afford to move. What legal help is available?

California AAAs provide free legal assistance for seniors including tenant rights, eviction defense, and housing discrimination issues. Given California’s housing crisis, many AAAs have specialized housing attorneys and partnerships with legal aid organizations. They can help with rent stabilization, senior housing applications, and emergency assistance programs. California has strong tenant protections that may apply to your situation.

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Disclaimer

Program details, contact information, and services can change without advance notice. California’s complex regulatory environment, frequent natural disasters, and rapidly changing housing market can affect service availability and delivery methods. While this guide uses the most current available information as of August 2025, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with the relevant Area Agency on Aging before making decisions or applying for services.

This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional legal, medical, or financial advice. California’s unique geography, extreme cost of living, and diverse population create special considerations that may affect your situation. Always consult with qualified professionals familiar with California conditions for advice specific to your circumstances.

For the most current information, contact:

• California 2-1-1: Dial 2-1-1 – Statewide information and referral
• California Department of Aging: (916) 419-7500
• Your local Area Agency on Aging

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About This Guide

Researched and Compiled by Grants for Seniors

This guide has been carefully researched using publicly available government resources and official program websites. We systematically review federal and state program information to create comprehensive, accurate guides for older Americans seeking assistance programs, with special attention to California’s complex systems and diverse population needs.

Our Sources: All information comes from official sources including federal agency websites (HHS, USDA, SSA, CMS), California state government departments, official program documentation, and verified nonprofit organization resources serving California.

Verification Process: Each program listing undergoes thorough online verification by cross-referencing information across multiple official sources, checking current program status in California, verifying contact information across 33 AAA regions, and confirming eligibility requirements and service delivery methods adapted for California’s geography, demographics, and regulatory environment.

Information Currency: • Last Updated: August 2025 • Sources Verified: August 2025
• Next Review: February 2026

Important Note: Government programs can change without advance notice, and California’s frequent natural disasters and regulatory changes can affect service availability. While this guide uses the most current available information, we strongly recommend verifying all details directly with program administrators before applying.

Found an Error? If you discover outdated information or additional programs that should be included, especially those specific to California’s diverse communities, please contact us at info@grantsforseniors.org.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute professional advice. California’s complex legal environment, extreme costs, and diverse population require specialized guidance. Always confirm program details with official sources before applying.

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This resource is independently researched to help California seniors access available assistance programs adapted for the nation’s most populous and diverse state.